Nature Walks in San Angelo, Texas

Chris Howes/Wild Places Photography / Alamy

This railroad town also has lots of green.

Travel + Leisure

Updated January 20, 2017

Like many Lone Star State cities, San Angelo grew from a frontier town to a wealthy city when the railroads arrived. Unlike nearby urban centers in central Texas, though, it's continued to thrive, thanks to a diverse economy that touches on agriculture, medicine, and a growing number of small businesses. These dollars have translated into cultural bounty, including a beautiful river walk and the frequented San Angelo State Park as well as galleries and museums.

San Angelo State Park

This park has 50 miles of hiking and horseback riding trails that weave through cacti and wildflowers and lead to American Indian rock art and even fossilized animal tracks. The 12-square-mile grounds are also home to bison and longhorn herds.

Zentner’s Daughter Steak House

Foodways Texas, a food preservation association, made a film about Zentner’s in honor of family-owned and time-tested Texas restaurants. The house specialty has been chicken-fried steak since the dining room opened its doors in 1974.

The Blues Inn at Sealy Flats

This three-room inn in San Angelo’s historic district gives a shout-out to the area’s blues heritage with music-themed décor. Head to the Jimmy Reed Courtyard on Friday and Saturday nights for live music. The Howlin’ Wolf suite has a full kitchen.

San Angelo Nature Center

Stop in to see animals and insects—ranging from bobcats and porcupines to tarantulas and turtles—that are native to the Southwest.

Christoval Vineyards and Winery

Sip wine while you wander around this 25-acre vineyard located on outside of San Angelo on the Concho River in Christoval, Texas. You can try different wines in the tasting room, and check the calendar for events such as live music and seasonal dinners.